- Africa could generate between 1.5 and 3.3 million green jobs by 2030, with energy, agriculture, and sustainable mobility leading.
- The energy sector, particularly solar, is expected to create 2 million jobs, while agriculture and nature conservation could add 700,000 positions.
- Collaboration, workforce development, and $100 billion in annual investment will be crucial for realising the continent’s green job potential.
According to an FSD Africa and Shortlist report, Africa will create millions of green jobs by 2030. The “Forecasting Green Jobs in Africa” report projects that critical sectors like energy, agriculture, and sustainable mobility will generate 1.5 to 3.3 million jobs. These opportunities will address the continent’s youth unemployment crisis and help fight climate change.
The energy sector will lead with 2 million new jobs by 2030. Solar energy alone will produce 1.7 million manufacturing, installation, and maintenance jobs. The electricity transmission and distribution sectors will add another 197,000 jobs. Hydropower and wind energy will expand job opportunities, especially in East and Southern Africa.
Agriculture and nature conservation will create 700,000 green jobs. Climate-smart technologies like drip irrigation and agroforestry will add 377,000 positions. Aquaculture and poultry farming, mainly in West and Central Africa, will contribute 189,000 jobs as protein demand grows. Conservation efforts, including mangrove restoration and park management, will provide 117,000 additional jobs.
Several African countries will emerge as green job hubs. South Africa’s solar industry will generate between 85,000 and 275,000 jobs by 2030. Nigeria will add between 60,000 and 240,000 jobs through agricultural technologies and aquaculture. Kenya will see up to 240,000 jobs in solar and electric mobility sectors. Ethiopia will create 33,000 jobs in hydropower, while the Democratic Republic of Congo will generate 45,000 jobs through projects like the Inga Dam.
Green jobs will require skilled labour. The report emphasises that 60% of green jobs will demand technical expertise. Around 10% of these jobs require a university degree, while 30% need technical certification. The remaining 40% will offer entry-level roles, particularly in sanitation and recycling.
To achieve this transition, Africa will need $100 billion yearly to fund renewable energy infrastructure. Governments must introduce favourable policies and tax incentives to attract private investors and lower project risks.
Collaboration between governments, businesses, and educational institutions will be crucial. Public-private partnerships will help train workers and ensure their skills match industry needs. These efforts will secure Africa’s position as a global leader in green employment.
The “Forecasting Green Jobs in Africa” report highlights a unique opportunity for Africa to tackle unemployment and climate change. With suitable investments and strategic policies, Africa can unlock its green economy potential by 2030.